CJ Koome unveils new strategy to combat corruption in Judiciary

Clinton Ng’iela (KNA) and Nicholas Kigondu (PCO)

Kenya has taken a major step in the fight against corruption with the launch of the Anti-Corruption Strategic Guiding Framework for the justice sector.

Speaking in Nairobi while launching the programme, Chief Justice (CJ) Martha Koome emphasized that the initiative marks the beginning of a bold new chapter in the collective commitment to integrity, accountability and justice.

The CJ stated that the framework developed under the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ), outlines short, mid and long-term strategies to eliminate corruption within the justice system.

Koome further disclosed that the framework was inspired by resolutions made at the Heads of the Arms of Government Summit convened by President William Ruto in January 2024 at State House, Nairobi.

“Corruption is a significant challenge that erodes public trust and weakens our institutions,” Koome stated, urging all stakeholders to actively implement the framework.

Additionally, she highlighted that inter-agency collaboration is key to tackling corruption and restoring confidence in the justice sector.

The CJ on the other hand reiterated that the Judiciary has already introduced Court Integrity Committees in every court to address corruption at the grassroots level.

“I have issued a directive for all courts to conduct daily morning briefings to affirm that no facilitation fee is required for justice,” she asserted.

In addition, Koome pointed out that the launch framework includes 76 programs aimed at reinforcing ethical leadership and ensuring effective legal reforms.

“Let this strategy be a living instrument that drives real change,” voiced Koome, noting that the success of this initiative will depend on political will, public participation, and proper resource allocation.

From her revelations, the CJ maintained that the framework is a roadmap for strengthening integrity and accountability in the justice system while assuring the Judiciary’s commitment by highlighting measures such as Court Integrity Committees and daily court briefings to ensure transparency.

To ensure the effective implementation of the framework, Koome urged all government agencies to deepen their commitment to constitutional mandates and work together in the fight against the corruption menace.

Further, she stressed the need for adequate resource allocation from the National Treasury to support anti-corruption efforts and called on Parliament to implement the legal reforms outlined in the framework, emphasizing that such reforms are critical in eliminating corruption.

“The success of this initiative depends on political will, collaboration, and public participation to create a justice system that upholds the rule of law,” Koome restated.

Speaking at the same forum, National Treasury and Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi said the impact of corruption is wide-ranging adding that integrity remains the cornerstone of democracy and national development.

He said the framework aligns with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda that advocates for economic opportunities and a reformed public sector.

Correctional services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco said the initiative strengthens collective resolve to uphold integrity, transparency, and institutional accountability, adding that the multi-sectoral framework will enhance coordination across key areas of prevention, investigations, arrests, asset recovery, prosecution and trial.

“The launch of the framework is a call to action. Correctional services remain committed to integrity, rehabilitation, and contributing to a transparent, corruption-free Kenya. By working together, we can restore public trust and reinforce the rule of law.” She observed.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said the service remains committed to enhancing measures to fight corruption, improve accountability, and ensure the seamless delivery of service.

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga reaffirmed his office's commitment to ensuring well-coordinated and effective mechanisms are in place to combat corruption and economic crime-related cases.